Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice Recipe

Introduction

If you’re searching for a meal that’s sure to turn a regular weeknight dinner into a tropical escape, this Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice recipe is the answer. Bursting with juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a tangy-sweet sauce, this dish perfectly balances sweet, savory, and umami flavors for a family-friendly meal that’s simply irresistible.

This recipe is a standout for its vibrant medley of flavors and textures, approachable ingredients, and the delightful one-pan cleanup—making it just as convenient as it is delicious.

The Perfect Harmony: Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice

What sets this dish apart is the interplay of flavors: juicy chunks of pineapple provide bursts of sweetness, while the chicken and aromatics balance each bite with savory depth. Soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of chili create a sauce that’s both complex and crowd-pleasing. Served over fluffy rice, every forkful is a little moment of paradise.

Prepping Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

For this recipe, uniform chopping ensures even cooking and beautiful presentation. Save yourself time and get perfectly diced pineapple, onions, and peppers with a Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper. With all your ingredients prepped, you’ll be able to build layers of flavor efficiently.

Want extra tender, flavorful chicken? Use a Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen after cooking to create bite-sized shreds that soak up every bit of sauce.

Cooking Steps for Juicy Chicken & Caramelized Pineapple

Start by searing your seasoned chicken in a high-quality nonstick skillet to lock in juices and flavor. The SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch offers consistent heat for a perfect golden sear without sticking. Remove the chicken after it’s browned and cook your vegetables and pineapple until caramelized, then return the chicken to finish cooking in the sauce.

How to Serve Pineapple Chicken and Rice for Visual Impact

This dish shines when served over a bed of fluffy white or jasmine rice. For perfectly cooked rice, try a hands-off approach in the Instant Pot, or if you’re craving crispy rice, use an air fryer with Air Fryer Paper Liners, 8″ Square for easy cleanup and an appealing presentation.

Pack leftovers into a Bentgo Salad Container for effortless work lunches—this meal travels as well as it tastes.

Nutritional Information & Serving Size

This recipe yields four hearty servings. Each plate typically contains about 450 calories, 30g protein, and plenty of immune-boosting vitamins from pineapple and peppers. The balance of macronutrients and flavor makes this dish a wholesome fit for almost any meal plan.

Sweet and Savory Pineapple Chicken and Rice (Recap)

Combining caramelized pineapple, savory chicken, and a tangy-sweet sauce all in one skillet, this recipe is the fastest route to a dinner that impresses both with flavor and simplicity. It’s a weeknight staple with vacation vibes—guaranteed to satisfy your next craving for something special yet easy.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, toss the chopped chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a SENSARTE Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet, 9.5 Inch over medium-high. Cook chicken in a single layer until browned and nearly cooked through, about 4–5 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
3. Add the remaining oil, then cook the onion and bell pepper until just softened, about 3 minutes. Add garlic, ginger, and diced pineapple. Sauté until the pineapple is caramelized and golden at the edges, another 3–4 minutes.
4. Return chicken to the pan. In a small bowl, mix broth, pineapple juice, honey (or brown sugar), and vinegar. Pour over chicken and veggies, scraping up any browned bits. Add red pepper flakes if desired.
5. Simmer until sauce thickens and chicken is cooked through, about 4 minutes.
6. Serve hot over cooked rice. Garnish with scallions or cilantro for added freshness and color.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes